Chess Library & Research Space
The Chess Library & Study Hall is a purpose-built research environment supporting serious study, preparation, and scholarship. The collection spans nearly two centuries of chess literature and includes books, periodicals, tournament bulletins, and instructional works in multiple languages.
The space is designed to support focused, uninterrupted work and is governed by policies that preserve the condition, accessibility, and long-term value of the collection.
Use of Materials & Study Access
Library materials are made available through several structured use models designed to support both short-term study and long-term research while preserving the integrity of the collection.
On-Site Reference:
A significant portion of the collection is designated for on-site use only. These materials—including rare, archival, or fragile works—are available for study within the Library & Study Hall.
Reserved & Bundled Materials:
Members engaged in extended research, translation, or preparation may request specific books or curated bundles to be securely reserved between visits, allowing continuity of work across multiple sessions.
Circulating Materials:
Selected materials may be eligible for traditional library checkout, subject to availability and membership eligibility.
Cataloging, Circulation & Stewardship
The Chess Library & Study Hall is cataloged and managed using TinyCAT, a professional library management system designed for nonprofit and institutional collections.
TinyCAT supports accurate cataloging, circulation tracking, reservations, and accountability, ensuring that materials remain accessible while being responsibly stewarded over time.
Circulation eligibility, loan periods, and reservation policies are determined by membership level and internal guidelines, allowing the Foundation to balance access, preservation, and long-term sustainability of the collection.
Study Environment, Conduct & Preservation
The Library & Study Hall is maintained as a quiet, professional research environment. Members and guests are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that supports focused study and respects the shared nature of the space.
Care of library materials is a collective responsibility. Books, periodicals, and archival items must be handled thoughtfully and returned in the condition in which they were provided. Food and beverages are restricted in areas where materials are in use.
Policies governing use of the Library & Study Hall are designed to preserve the long-term value and accessibility of the collection while ensuring that serious students, researchers, and translators are able to work without distraction.